The Girl Next Door characters

Appears from the start

The adult narrator looking back on one summer in his suburban childhood. As a boy, David is drawn to the neighboring Chandler household and to Meg Loughlin, but his wish to belong repeatedly conflicts with his knowledge that what happens there is wrong.

First appears in chapter 2

A neighborhood mother whose relaxed rules make her house a gathering place for local children. She presents herself as frank and understanding, encouraging the boys to treat her as a confidante rather than an authority figure.

First appears in chapter 2

Ruth's eldest son and an influential member of the neighborhood group. Willie is accustomed to the permissive atmosphere in his home and looks to Ruth for the limits of acceptable behavior.

First appears in chapter 2

One of Ruth's younger sons, usually present with his brothers and the other neighborhood children around the Chandler house.

First appears in chapter 2

Ruth's youngest son, part of the group of children for whom the Chandler house and yard serve as a social center.

First appears in chapter 4

A teenage girl orphaned with her younger sister Susan and sent to live with their aunt Ruth. Meg is self-possessed, protective of Susan, and newly vulnerable because the sisters depend on the Chandler household.

First appears in chapter 4

Meg's younger sister, who comes to the Chandler home after the death of their parents. A physical disability limits her mobility, and she relies heavily on Meg for reassurance and protection.

First appears in chapter 7

One of the local boys who spends time with David and the Chandler brothers. Eddie is attracted by the freedom Ruth permits and follows the standards set by the group.

First appears in chapter 12

A neighborhood girl who enters the social orbit around Ruth's house. Her presence shows that participation in the group is not confined to Ruth's sons and their closest male friends.